What is Couples Counseling/Marriage Therapy?

Factors of everyday life can put an abundant strain on a relationship. Severe stressors may include resentment, infidelity, intimacy issues, lack of trust, and miscommunication. When problems go unresolved, or a partner is suffering from mental illness or health complications, one can feel helpless or have feelings of guilt or shame. Communicating effectively on both parts can alleviate emotional anxiety from subjects of all kind.

Couples often seek couples or marriage counseling when the relationship is at a standstill, or if they are unsure whether or not the relationship is worth salvaging. This type of therapy can benefit families with children who have been affected by relationship issues such as divorce, and confront the source of the conflict.

In the first session, I will conduct a general assessment, with both partners present. In the second session I will split the time evenly and see each partner individually for an Attachment History Assessment. From that point on, I want the couple present as much a possible--if we are doing relationship counseling, I want the relationship in the room!

What will affect the success of Couples Counseling?

Sometimes there are factors that will influence the success of couples counseling. When a relationship is dealing with an untreated/unacknowledged addiction, physical abuse, or an undisclosed affair, we might need to address these outside the context of couples counseling. Regardless, seek guidance from a counselor immediately for your safety and your partner (or, in severe cases, reach out to local law enforcement or domestic violence programs if you are in physical danger).